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Cast for ZA 1911 production of Achilles in Scyros |
| Society Zeta Alpha was founded in 1876 as a literary and theatrical society on campus. It would eventually be one of the six societies on campus – the Agora, Phi Sigma Society, Shakespeare Society, Society Tau Zeta Epsilon, and Alpha Kappa Chi Society made up the other five. During the early half of the century the societies worked closely together through the Inter Society Council. Currently only Zeta Alpha, Phi Sigma, Tau Zeta Epsilon, and Shakespeare Society remain active. |
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Mount Holyoke brochure
featuring Zeta Alpha. |
Robin Hood and Allan-a-Dale Circa 1909 |
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| The practices and philosophies of the society have changed much over time. Originally, members sent invitations to Wellesley students whom they wanted to tea, and until the 1930s, only juniors and seniors could join the society. Membership was eventually opened up to sophomores and more recently second-semester first years.
Over the course of time, Zeta Alpha has evolved from its theatrical role on campus to a more literary one. Although the society has changed much over it's history, many traditions remain alive. Once a year, in preparation for Traditions Night, members visit the Wellesley archives and explore its holdings pertaining to Zeta Alpha. The society boasts the oldest continuous holdings of any campus organization, and members quickly realize that at its core Zeta Alpha has remained true to its original goals.
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| Toast |
Come lift your glasses high
To dear old Zeta Alpha!
Come drink the loving cup
To dear old Zeta Alpha!
Time and change their worst may do
But the passing seasons through
We'll keep our hearts still true
To dear old Zeta Alpha. |
| ZA Archives, undated. |
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